The Internet revolution has hit China and there's no turning back. An estimated 32.5 million Chinese will be online by 2001 (1), with revenue from e-commerce expected to increase to $11.7 billion by 2004 (2). According to Forrester Research Inc., advertisers and businesses are projected to increase their Internet advertising spending in China and Taiwan from $12 million in 1999 to $556 million in 2004, with online advertising in China accounting for $440 million. With a population of 1.4 billion people, China has definitely emerged as the next cyberspace frontier.

In North America, Asian Americans have the highest percentage online of any population group. Moreover, they are the most active online users, with over 40% purchasing online (3). The fastest growing population segment in the U.S., Asian Americans are more affluent and have the most advanced degrees of any group, including Caucasians.

Online Chinese Content and Services for a Rapidly Growing Niche Market What's the best way to reach the generally affluent, well-educated Chinese online population? Speak their language. Despite the rapid growth in Internet usage by non-English speakers worldwide, more than 80% of Internet content is in English. At SINA.com, we believe global Chinese users desire relevant Chinese-language content and services tailored to their needs.

For more information, contact Karen Brux, 408 548-0000, ext. 1324, karenb@staff.sina.com.

Sources:
(1) Warburg Dillon Read
(2) IDC, November 1999
(3) The Digital Melting Pot, Forrester Research - May 1999